Charlotte, NC – The Special Agent-in-Charge of the FBI in Charlotte, working closely with the North Carolina Human Trafficking Task Force and numerous other federal and state agencies, announced the kick-off of the Human Trafficking Initiative here today.

Special Agent Kevin Kendrick launched an information and awareness campaign and requests the assistance of all public media to enhance public awareness to this growing travesty in our state. Law enforcement agencies recognize the importance of providing information to the public regarding the nature and scope of this crime problem within the state of North Carolina, and the FBI views the local and regional media as a key partner in this important initiative. The goal of this campaign is to serve both as an education and awareness as this crime is considered a form of modern-day slavery.

The FBI Charlotte sees Human Trafficking crossing three critical areas: 1) legal and victims services, 2) law enforcement assistance, and 3) public awareness. Each area requires a partnership between the FBI, media and general public to heighten public awareness to the travesty of human trafficking.

In the area of legal and victim services, the FBI is working closely with Legal Services of Southern Piedmont, and Legal Aid of North Carolina, Inc. who provide key legal assistance and services to those in need. Both of these groups have worked extensively with victims of human trafficking and bring an expertise and understanding that will benefit the victim in their time of need.

The FBI is dedicated to combat this criminal activity and requests your assistance, in any manner deemed proper, to continuously provide public awareness and victims assistance information and, more importantly, what to do if there is suspected human trafficking.